asked the Taoiseach the total number of people unemployed in County Galway with a breakdown of the numbers unemployed in the employment exchange areas of Galway city, Tuam, Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Gort, Clifden and Athenry; and if he will give the corresponding figures for 1 January, 1985.

Dún Laoghaire): I propose to circulate a statement giving the information sought by the Deputy.

Following is the statement: The following table shows the number of persons on the live register at each local employment office in County Galway on 25 April 1986 and the corresponding figures for 28 December 1984.

There is no local employment office in Athenry.

May I ask a question?

No.

(Dún Laoghaire): The Deputy will be glad to hear that there is a reduction in the number of unemployed in County Galway.

In view of what the Minister has said, does he attribute that to an increase in the number of jobs created or to emigration?

Technically the Deputy is correct and I will allow the question.

(Dún Laoghaire): My information is that on 28 December 1984 the total number of unemployed in County Galway was 11,050 and on 25 April 1986 it was 11,001, a reduction of 49.

I asked the Minister if the reduction was due to the creation of extra jobs or to mass emigration from the county?

(Dún Laoghaire): I have no doubt it was attributable to the improvement in the climate for employment here.

The Minister is living in cloud cuckooland if he believes that.

He should check with the American Embassy to find out the number of visas granted.

I am calling Question No. 2.